Nikon fe User Manual

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NOMENCLATURE

Shutter-speed dial lock

Shutter release button

Shutter release fingerguard

Neckstrap eyelet

Lens aperture direct readout window

Meter coupling lever

Meter coupling lever release

Sync terminal (cover provided)

Depth-of-fi eld preview lever

Self-timer/memory lock

Reflex mirror

Lens mounting flange

Lens mounting index

Lens release button

Focusing screen holder release

Motor drive shutter coupling

Motor drive coupling

Film rewind button

Tripod socket

Battery chamber lid

Motor drive electrical contacts

Memo holder

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Distance scale

Aperture/distance scale index

Focusing ring

Aperture ring

Meter coupling ridge

Exposure compensation index

Meter coupling shoe

Depth-of-field indicators

Aperture-direct-readout scale

Exposure compensation scale

Film rewind crank

Film rewind knob

Safety lock

Hot-shoe contact

Shutter-speed Index

Shutter-speed scale

Frame counter

Film-speed scale index

ASA film-speed scale/dial

Exposure compensation ring

Power check lever/lamp

Multi-exposure lever

Film-advance lever

Meter ON Index

Film-plane indicator

ASA film-speed dial lock

Accessory shoe

Viewfinder eyepiece (w/ready-llght)

Ready-light contact

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mREWORD

The Nikon FE is a compact 35mm single-lens reflex

camera with a host of outstanding features. It offers aperture-priority automatic exposure control with shut

ter speeds from 1/1000 second down to 8 seconds, has

interchangeable focusing screens, and accepts the option

al MD-12 for motor-driven exposures up to 3.5 frames

per second. In addition, the FE incorporates automatic flash speed setting when used in conjunction with the accessory Speedlight Unit SB-10. When the SB-10 Is

mounted on the camera’s hot shoe and turned on, the shutter speed Is automatically set to the proper synchro

nization speed of 1/90 second when the camera is set to

“automatic.” The FE will also accept virtually every accessory in the Nikon System—the most comprehensive ever created for photography. To get the most out of this camera, study the instructions in this manual care fully, and practice using the controls before loading the camera with film. Keep the manual on hand for ready

reference until you have mastered operation. The few minutes you spend familiarizing yourself with the

camera will guarantee you the best results and increase your pleasure in taking pictures many times over.

INSINC.NET

PREPARATION FOR USE

Installing the Batteries

The Nikon FE’s built-in exposure meter and the elec tronic shutter control circuits are powered by two

button-cell type 1.55V silver-oxide batteries or one 3V

lithium battery. These are mounted in the battery clip, which forms a single unit with the battery chamber’s coin-slotted lid, in the camera’s baseplate. To install the

Checking Battery Power

To check battery power, simply turn the power check

lever downward and watch the power check lamp. If the lamp fails to glow, check the battery seating and make any necessary adjustments. Should the lamp still fail to

ight up. Install new batteries.

Caution:

battery or batteries, first unscrew the lid by turning it

counterclockwise, with a coin or something similar, until

it can be freely removed by hand. Then, seat the battery, or the two batteries one on top of the other, in the bat tery clip, making sure that the respective plus (+) and

minus (—) signs correspond with similar marks provided

in the clip. After seating the batteries correctly, replace

1) When the camera is not in use, make sure that the film-ad vance lever is positioned flush with the camera body. As the

lever doubles as the meter on-off switch, leaving it in the stand-off position will result in the camera's battery being

completely drained In just a few days.

2)

When the camera is attached to the MD-12 motor drive, make

sure the motor drive is switched off when It is not in use to prevent drain of both the camera and the motor drive's

batteries.

the lid, and secure the connection by turning it clock

wise with the coin as far as it will go. It is advisable to

remove the batteries, when the camera is not to be used

for a long period, to prevent battery leakage within the

camera; for additional information, refer to “Tips on

Camera Care” on page 39.

3) When the batteries are dead or there are none installed in the camera, the only two settings which can be used are “M90"

and “B.” If you trip the shutter with the camera set to any

other speed, the shutter won't open or the reflex mirror may

remain In the “up" position. If the mirror locks up, simply turn the shutter speed dial to “M90"

and the mirror will return to Its normal viewing

position. Then you can

install new batteries.

To avoid wasting a frame, stroke the winding lever

while holding in the multiple-

exposure lever.

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Loading Film

side (dull side) facing out. Make sure that the perfo

First, open the camera back by sliding its safety lock to

the rear and lifting the film rewind knob as far as it will

go. Position the film cartridge or cassette in the film

chamber, which is located on the left-hand side, with the film leader aligned along the film guide rails; then, push

the rewind knob down to hold the cartridge in place. Pull the film leader out sufficiently for feeding into the film

rations along the edges of the film mesh with the

sprockets. If necessary, release the shutter by pushing

the shutter release button, and stroke the film-advance

lever slowly to make sure that the leader winds smoothly

on the spool and that the film edge perforations engage

the film sprocket roller. When you are certain that the

film is being fed properly onto the spool and traveling

take-up spool, and insert its end into any of the spool’s slots. Rotate the take-up spool as shown in the illustration so that the film passes under the spool with its emulsion

correctly along the film guide rails, close the camera

back by pressing it until it snaps into place.

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7

PREPARATION FOR USE—continued

Prior to Shooting

Fold out the film rewind crank, and turn it gently in the

direction of the engraved arrow until you feel a slight

resistance; this will indicate that any slack in the film

cartridge has been taken up. Then, fold the rewind crank

into place. Advance the film (refer to page 12 for film advance oper

After advancing the film two frames, check that the frame counter is at “0”; then, advance the film one more

frame to prepare the camera for taking the first picture.

Note: Setting the shutter-speed dial to a manual position (rather than “AUTO”) will speed up film loading by preventing the

camera from selecting a slow speed, as might be the case when

the lens cap is in place. However, be sure to reset the dial to

“AUTO” if automatic operation is desired.

ation), and make two blank exposures; this will dispose of the initial portion of the film exposed during loading. As you advance the film, confirm that the rewind crank turns in the direction opposite the arrow. This indicates that the film has been loaded properly and is being advanced.

When load

ing film

1 St blank

exposure

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2nd blank exposure

3rd blank expo

sure; now ready

for 1 St shot

8

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Setting the Film Speed

Memo Holder

As film sensitivity to light (called “film speed”) varies

with film type, adjustment of the camera’s metering circuit is essential to ensure uniform exposures under all conditions. Thus, a film-speed dial is provided for this

purpose, with a safety lock mechanism built in to

prevent accidental shifting of the dial during shooting.

To set the film speed, hold in the film-speed dial lock

A special holder is provided on the camera back for con venient storage of any relevant information. You can use

it, for instance, to hold the end flap of a film carton to

remind you of the type of film loaded in the camera, the ASA film speed and the total number of exposures available.

and turn the ASA film-speed dial until the ASA number

is aligned with the red index. After setting the dial,

release the lock and test the dial to ensure that it is set firmly at the desired ASA value. The meter is sensitive from ASA 12 to ASA 4000. The film-speed dial has two graduations between each pair of numbers for inter

mediate settings such as 64, 80, 125, etc. The illustration

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below indicates all intermediate settings.

1000

1.250, \

''2000

2500.

4000

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OPERATION OF CAMERA CONTROLS

Setting the Shutter Speed

The Nikon FE is set for automatic or manual shutter

speed selection via the shutter-speed dial positioned to the right of the finder, with setting operation possible at any time either before or after the shutter is wound.

The dial is provided with positions for automatic (AUTO),

and manual speeds from 8 seconds to 1/1000 second. To set the dial for automatic shutter speed selection, simply rotate the dial clockwise until the green AUTO (auto matic) setting clicks and locks Into place aligned with the shutter-speed scale index at the base of the dial; the

built-in locking mechanism ensures that the dial cannot be accidently shifted from the automatic position during shooting.

To set the dial for manual shutter speed selection used

during “match-needle” exposure measurement, simply

hold in the shutter-speed dial lock and rotate the dial

counterclockwise off the “AUTO” position; when the dial is aligned with white settings from 2 to 1000, the

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actual shutter speed Is a fractional value from 1/2 second to 1/1000 second, while the remaining settings indicate the actual values from 8 seconds to 1 second. The “M90” setting indicates a mechanical shutter speed of 1/90 sec

ond which operates independently of battery power. This

is the only setting (except “B”) which can be used when

10

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the batteries are exhausted or none are loaded in the camera. The ‘‘M90” setting also serves as a known

shutter speed when shooting with electronic flash. At the “B” setting, the shutter remains open as long as the

shutter release button is depressed. “B” is also a me

chanical shutter speed, so there is no battery drain when shooting time exposures. To conserve battery power when making really long time exposures, use a cable release and then push the film-advance lever back in flush with the camera body after opening the shutter.

Note that the 125 setting is engraved in red; this indi

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cates 1/125 second, the fastest shutter speed available for synchronization with electronic flash units. (Refer to

page 37 for additional information on flash photography.)

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n

OPERATION OF CAMERA CONTROLS-continued

Film-Advance Lever

The film-advance lever simultaneously advances the film,

cocks the shutter and operates the frame counter. It also

doubles as the Nikon FE’s meter on/off switch and shutter button lock.

To advance the film, stroke the lever with your right

thumb as far as it will go. The film will be advanced a

Frame Counter

Each time the film is advanced one frame by a full stroke of the film-advance lever, the frame counter operates to show how many frames have been exposed.

It is automatically reset to S (start), two frames before

0, when the camera back is opened to remove an ex posed film cartridge and/or to load a new roll of film.

full frame. The lever automatically returns to its 30° stand-off position when released upon the completion of

film advance.

The film-advance lever switches the meter on when

moved to its stand-off position; it switches the meter off when moved back flush with the camera body. With the

lever set flush against the camera body, it serves also as a

The fram’e counter has indications for up to a maximum

of 36 frames, with all odd numbers calibrated in dots and all even numbers in figures. The figures are in white, except for 1 2, 20 and 36 which appear in red to indicate

the maximum number of exposures available, respective ly, with standard film cartridges.

lock to prevent accidental tripping when the shutter is

cocked. In this position (when the meter is off), the

meter needle in the viewfinder rests below “B” on the

shutter-speed scale.

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Self-Timer

simply turn It back upwards and push It towards the lens

The built-in self-timer can be used to trip the shutter

after a delay of approximately 8—14 seconds. To take a picture using the self-timer, first set the aperture and shutter speed controls, advance the film, and cock the

self-timer by turning the self-timer lever downwards.

Then, depress the shutter release button and the timer

will start (note that the mirror will rise as the shutter

mount. Then you can resume normal shutter tripping operation. The self-timer works at all shutter speed set tings, except “B.” For critical close-up photography, the self-timer, in combination with a tripod, is particularly useful in preventing vibration.

Note: When using the self-timer with the camera on automatic,

cover the eyepiece with your hand only at the instant you

button is depressed and return at the end of the cycle). A unique feature of the FE’s self-timer lever is that its

setting is “cancellable.’’ In other words, should you decide not to use the self-timer after setting it, you

release the shutter; this will prevent light from entering into the

eyepiece and adversely affecting exposure measurement.

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13

OPERATION OF CAMERA CONTROLS-continued

Memory Lock

The convenient location of the self-timer lever, making

for ready finger access, proves advantageous when using the built-in memory lock. Memory lock enables the

photographer to “lock in” a close-up reading of the

subject. To operate the memory lock, view through the

finder and meter on the selected area; then, simply push

the lever toward the lens to hold the reading until the completion of the exposure. The reading will be retained as long as the control is held in this position. Even

though the meter needle continues to move while the

memory lock is activated, the shutter speed is still “locked in” electronically. Thus, several frames can be

exposed using the same locked reading. Also, the aper

ture can be adjusted without affecting the locked-in shutter speed. (See “High-Contrast Lighting Situations” on page 28 for details on the use of the memory lock.)

14

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HOLDING THE CAMERA

Camera shake is one of the most common causes of blur

red, unsharp pictures, especially at slow shutter speeds.

To prevent this, learn how to hold the camera correctly

and practice steady shutter squeezing. Wrap the fingers of the right hand around the camera

body so that the index finger of your right hand rests

comfortably on the shutter release button and the

thumb fits between the camera body and the film-

advance lever. Position the camera so you can look

through the center of the viewfinder. Cradle the camera with your left hand for additional support, using the thumb and middle finger to grasp the focusing ring. In this way, the camera is properly supported and can

easily be switched from horizontal to vertical format

shooting.

16

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SHUTTER RELEASE OPERATION

Correct shutter release operation is just as important to

obtaining sharp pictures as holding the camera properly.

To release the shutter correctly, move the advance lever

to its stand-off position, hold the camera steady and

depress the shutter release button with smooth, even

pressure. Relax even when you’re in a hurry—a quick jab

at the shutter release button will cause camera shake and

Operation with Cable Release

The shutter release button can also be tripped with a cable release. To attach a cable release to the camera,

screw the threaded cable connector into the button. The shutter is then tripped by depressing the cable release

plunger. Cable release operation is especially recom mended for critical shooting situations, such as photo

result in an unintentionally blurred photograph.

micrography or time exposures, where vibration-free

shutter release is of prime importance.

Important: If you mount the Nikon FE

on a tripod having a large head, contact

between the lens body and the head may make it impossible to turn the lens

aperture ring. If this happens, use the

special tripod adapter (supplied with the

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camera) between the tripod head and camera body.

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17

FOCUSING

When the FE is used with a Nikkor lens fitted with an

automatic diaphragm, focusing is done at fulf aperture. This makes for the brightest possible image on the focusing screen, enabling easy focusing and composing.

Three types of focusing screens are available exclusively

for the Nikon FE. (For details about changing focusing

screens, see page 41.) The type K focusing screen comes

To focus, using the split-image rangefinder spot, turn the

focusing ring of the lens until the two halves of the range finder spot perfectly coincide, forming a single, crisp

image. To focus with the microprism collar, turn the

focusing ring until the image seen through the micro

prism pattern appears sharp and crisp. With the matte

outer field, turn the ring until the image viewed in the with the camera as standard equipment. It gives you a choice of three focusing aids: a central split-image range

finder spot, a microprism collar and a fine matte outer

field.

field appears sharp.

The split-image rangefinder spot is the most suitable for

precise, pinpoint focusing, while the microprism collar is

perfect for rapid focusing in sports or action-type pho

tography. The fine matte outer field, on the other hand,

is ideal for use with telephoto lenses or in closeup and

macrophotography.

You can also prefocus the lens by using the distance

scale engraved in both meters and feet on the lens

barrel. Simply turn the focusing ring until the measured

or estimated camera-to-subject distance is lined up with

the distance scale index on the lens barrel. This tech

nique is useful for picture-taking situations where either

the subject is elusive or time does not permit throughthe-lens focusing.

Note: When using lenses with maximum apertures of f/3.5 or smaller, one-half of the split-image rangefinder may black out.

In this case, use the matte outer field instead.

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Out of focus

In focus

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19

FOCUSING—continued

Infrared Photography

The plane of sharpest focus for infrared light is slightly further away than Its counterpart for visible light as seen

through the camera’s viewfinder. To compensate for this,

first focus the image sharply through the viewfinder.

Then, turn the focusing ring counterclockwise until the

point focused is aligned with the red dot (or line) pro

Film-Plane Indicator

To ensure the best results in critical picture-taking

situations, such as closeup or copy photography, it might

be necessary to determine the exact subject-to-film-

plane distance. The Nikon FE Is thus provided with a

film plane indicator (-©-); this is positioned exactly on

the film plane, which Is 46.5mm from the front surface

vided on the lens barrel. For example, in the picture

below, the lens has been focused for infinity (°°) infrared

shooting. Note that when lenses with a focal length of

50mm or less are used stopped-down to f/8 or below,

compensation is not necessary due to the large depth of

field available. There are some NIkkor lenses that do not require refocus

of the lens mounting flange.

ing for infrared photography; refer to their instruction

manuals for details.

(bayonet mount front surface)

20

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DEPTH OF FIELD

When you focus on your subject, you will find that not only is the subject itself in focus but that objects both in

front of and behind it appear to be in focus. This “zone” of focus is called “depth of field.”

Depth of field is not a fixed quantity. It varies by lens,

depending on both the subject’s distance from the

camera and the specific lens aperture in use. A third

To examine the depth of field before taking a picture, it

is necessary to stop down the lens manually. You can do

this by pushing the depth-of-field preview lever. Assum

ing that the lens is not set to its maximum aperture, depressing the lever will stop down the lens to that aperture. You will then be able to see the elements in

front of and behind the main subject that will be in

factor, the focal length of the lens, also influences the apparent depth of field, i.e., the longer the lens, the shallower the depth of field appears to be, and vice versa.

In the same manner, the wider the taking aperture (i.e., the lower the f/stop number), the shallower the depth of field, and-vice versa. Also, the closer you approach your subject, the shallower the depth of field becomes, and

sharp focus in the final photograph—although some of them may have not appeared to be In focus prior to

pushing the lever. A side effect is the “darkening” of the image in the viewfinder (the higher the f/number, the

darker the image appears); this is normal and should be

no cause for concern. Note that the correct “automatic”

exposure cannot be obtained if the lever is depressed

vice versa. In all cases, you will find that the depth of

field behind the subject is larger than that in front.

Depth-of-Field Preview Lever

Most Nikkor lenses are “automatic.” This means that

the aperture diaphragm remains open at its widest while

you are viewing, focusing and metering. When you press

when the shutter is released. After jtaking a stoppeddown meter reading, you can release the shutter with the

depth-of-field lever depressed, but it must be depressed all the way. Otherwise, the shutter may not open.

the shutter release button, the camera automatically

“stops down” the diaphragm to the aperture which is set

on the aperture ring.

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21

1

Depth-of-Field Indicators

Virtually every Nikkor lens comes with three scales

which can be used for determining the depth of field. The first is the lens aperture scale, with the f/numbers color-coded. The second consists of two sets of colored

lines, the colors corresponding to the colors of the

f/numbers. The third is the focusing scale which is cali

brated in meters and feet.

To determine depth of field, note the color of the f/

number in use. The depth of field at the taking aperture is indicated by the numbers on the focusing scale which are adjacent to the colored lines that correspond to the

color of the f/number set.

Example:

Taking aperture: f/16

Color: Blue

Focusing distance: 5m

In the example above, the farthest point of sharp focus

behind the subject is infinity (°®); this is the figure on the

Lens set at f/4: Shallow depth of field centered on the main subject.

focusing scale which is adjacent to the blue line on the

second scale, which in turn corresponds to the blue color

of the f/16 setting. The closest point of sharp focus is

2.7m, although this number does not appear in the

focusing scale.

Note that for exact depth-of-field determination, you should refer to the depth-of-field tables in the instruc

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tion manual for the Nikkor lens in use.

22

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Lens at f/8: Depth of field extends in front of/behind the main subject.

Lens at f/16: Sharp focus

encompasses the entire

foreground and

background.

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23

EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT

The exposure meter of the Nikon FE is center-weighted. The meter reads the light over the entire focusing screen

but favors the central 12mm-diameter area, while still

taking the entire area into consideration. This allows you

to make precise readings of the selected subject area, and

results in more balanced overall exposures.

Automatic Shutter Speed Selection

When set to the “AUTO” shutter-speed dial setting, the

FE is capable of fully automatic selection of the shut ter speed appropriate to the aperture setting of the lens and the existing lighting conditions. The exposure meter

display, visible inside the finder, enables the photogra

pher to maintain continuous control over the exposure

while viewing and focusing. And as lighting conditions

(or the aperture ' setting) change, the shutter speed control circuit continues to maintain continuous and automatic control, for perfect exposures every time.

To take a picture using automatic shutter speed selec

tion, first set the shutter-speed dial to “AUTO” (the green needle in the finder will move to the upper “A”

position and remain there) and select an appropriate

aperture setting. As you compose and focus, the black

needle will continuously indicate the shutter speed being

selected for correct exposure. Prior to exposing the film,

make sure that the needle indicates a shutter speed

appropriate for the subject; if the indicated speed is too fast or too slow, simply adjust the aperture ring on the

lens until the desired shutter speed is indicated. Then,

press the shutter release button to take the shot. Note that as long as the needle remains within the scale, pro vided the EV range of the metering system is not ex

ceeded, the camera gives the correct exposure automati cally.

24

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25

When the shutter-speed dial is set to other than the

“AUTO"’ setting, manual shutter speed selection is provided, with exposure determination via the “match-

needle" method. To determine the correct exposure using manual speed selection, perform the following:

Switch on the meter by moving the advance lever to Its

stand-off position. Adjust the shutter-speed dial until the

green needle is aligned with the desired speed; then,

simply adjust the aperture setting of the lens until the

black needle moves to overlap the green needle. If de

liberate under- or overexposure is desired, adjust the controls so that the green needle overlaps the next higher number (one-stop underexposure) or the next

lower number (one-stop overexposure). Example under and overexposure indications are shown at the right.

15

8

4

2

1

2

4

8

60 30

15

8

4

2

1

2

4

8

26

B

Deliberate

one-stop

underexposure

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, . . and one-stop overexposure.

Expo'ilire Con f'ol

The amount of light reaching the film plane is deter

mined by a combination of the lens aperture and the shutter speed. Since the two are interrelated, different

combinations will give the same exposure. A 1-step

change in the shutter speed, or a 1-stop change in the aperture setting, will either halve or double the expo sure. For example, a shutter speed of 1/125 second allows twice as much light to strike the film as a setting

of 1/250 second, and only half as much light as a speed

of 1/60 second; with an aperture setting of f/11, twice as much light enters the lens at f/8, and half as much at

f/16. With this in mind, it’s easy to see that if a correct exposure for a scene is 1 /1 25 at f/11, then 1/60 at f/16

or 1 /250 at f/8 will give you exactly the same exposure.

The best combination will depend on the desired results.

Use fast shutter speeds to freeze motion, or slow speeds

to produce deliberate and creative blur. Small apertures give greater depth of field, while large apertures restrict sharp focus to the main subject. The creative selection of

both speeds and apertures will greatly enhance your

photography.

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27

EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT—continued

Metering Range

If the black meter needle fails to leave the “A" or “M/B” positions during auto (or fails to “match” the

green needle in manual), even after all possible lensaperture/shutter-speed combinations have been tried,

then the available light is too bright or too dim for the meter’s range. To correct this situation, several meas

High-Contrast Lighting Situations

When there are substantial brightness differences be tween the main subject and the background, unimportant bright spots or dark spots can adversely influence

the meter reading, and thus the final exposure. To pre

vent under- or overexposure of the main subject under these shooting conditions, some corrective action must

ures may be taken as follows: Mount a neutral density filter on the lens to decrease the light reaching the film

plane; or use artificial lighting (i.e., an electronic flash unit) to increase subject illumination. Remember, too,

that the lens in use can greatly influence suitability for bright or dim-light shooting. For example, a 50mm f/1.4

lens (with ASA 100 film) couples from EV 1 (f/1.4 at 1

be taken to ensure proper exposure of the main subject.

Fortunately, the finder’s center-weighted TTL meter

ing (and the memory lock function) simplify adjust

ments, making for quicker camera operation and more accurate final results.

To compensate for an excessively bright or dark back

ground, place the main subject in the center of the fo

second) to EV 18 (f/1 6 at 1/1000 second) for excellent

low-light performance; on the other hand, a 135mm

f/2.8 lens proves more usable at bright-light levels,

coupling (with ASA 1 00 film) to EV 3 ~ EV 20 (f/32 at 1/1000 second). Thus, choose the lens carefully to

match the existing lighting conditions.

cusing screen while performing metering; this action ensures that the main emphasis of the meter reading will be on the chosen subject. Then, after completing

aperture and shutter speed adjustments (and depressing

the memory lock to retain the shutter speed, if set to

auto), recompose to the desired picture composition and

make the exposure without readjusting the camera con

trols. For example, when shooting landscapes, it is often advisable to aim the camera slightly downward during

exposure measurement to eliminate the effects of a

bright expanse of sky; without such compensation, the

landscape may appear underexposed in the final print.

Also, for backlit subjects, it may be necessary to move

closer to the subject to ensure a proper reading.

28

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îi{ m

siîi%

..........

-“'««s..- iil ''

PllK#""'^ V - i ^ Il “;â

n ": - « .. -'Je.' 'Æ

Metering with a bright area in the center will

cause underexposure of the main subject.

.iCiasr

• . •< ^> A ««. vv«

For correct exposure, first measure the main subject;

then, recompose and shoot.

s ((<

au

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29

STOP-DOWN EXPOSURE MEA<iUREMENl

The vast selection of lenses available for use with your

Nikon FE includes some which are fitted neither with

an automatic diaphragm nor a meter coupling ridge,

both of which are essential to full-aperture exposure

9

measurement. The FE works with these lenses, through

an alternative method called “stop-down” exposure

measurement. First, the meter coupling lever should be raised and locked up out of the way manually by depress ing the coupling lever release button; to avoid accidental

damage, make sure you do not use excessive force when

raising the lever. After setting the lever, mount the lens or lens/accessory combination on the camera, switch on the meter by

moving the film-advance lever to the stand-off position, and then set the controls for correct exposure as follows:

For lenses or accessories having no automatic

diaphragm, nor meter coupling ridge (e.g., bel

lows units, extension rings, preset lenses)

AUTO: First, set the camera at “AUTO.” Focus on the subject and stop down the lens manually until the

desired shutter speed is indicated in the viewfinder.

MANUAL: First, focus on the subject. Adjust either the

shutter-speed dial or the lens aperture ring until the

needles in the viewfinder overlap.

30

*•*

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For automatic diaphragm lenses with no cou

For fixed-aperture lenses such as Reflex-Nikkors,

pling ridge

AUTO: Hold in the depth-of-field preview lever to stop-

down the lens diaphragm. Then, adjust the aperture ring until the black meter needle indicates the desired shutter

speed. Trip the shutter with the preview lever fully depressed toward the camera body until the completion of the exposure. An alternative way is to use the built-in

photomicrography or astrophotography

AUTO: As the lens aperture is fixed, no additional

control is necessary.

MANUAL: Adjust the shutter-speed dial until the

needles in the viewfinder overlap.

For additional control of exposure in either mode of

operation, use ND‘ filters, or adjust the illumination,

memory lock function. In this case, after reading the

meter in the same method as mentioned above, use the

memory lock to freeze the reading (be sure the preview

lever is still depressed when “locking in’" the reading), and then free the preview lever. Release the shutter while keeping the memory lock depressed.

MANUAL: Select the desired shutter speed, depress and

or switch to a higher or slower speed film.

hold the depth-of-field preview lever, and while keeping

it depressed, adjust the aperture ring until the needles in the viewfinder overlap.

You may free the preview lever before releasing the shutter.

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31

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS

Some exposure correction may be necessary when cer tain types of films are used for copying or photomicro graphy applications; the amount of correction required,

however, will depend on the type of film and the spe cific application. The following table lists the exposure corrections in f/stops required for various film/shooting

requirements. Compensation is possible by adjusting the

Caution: When performing general photography with the FE,

always make sure that the exposure compensation ring is set to

the “0” position; if not, incorrect exposure will occur.

shutter speed or the aperture by the indicated^amount; also, compensation is possible by adjusting the exposure

compensation ring provided for this purpose. To adjust the ring, simply lift and turn it until the index mark is aligned with the value corresponding to the amount of

compensation. In the example shown, the red dot on the ring is set to the +1 position, as required when perform

ing photomicrography using Panchromatic film. Ex

posure compensation on the FE ranges in half stops

from EV +2 to EV —2. However, when the ASA film-

speed dial is set at ASA 3200 or 4000, the compensation

ranges down to EV —1; at ASA 12, up to EV +1.

Repro-copying & slide-copying

Original

Photo

Type

of film

B&W

or

color photo

Letters or figures

on

light background

Letters or figures

micrography

on

dark background

Panchromatic

film

for general use necessary

32

No

compensation

+ V/2 stops

—Vi stop

+1 stop

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EV RANGE OF THE CAMERA

he camera’s meter may be used only within the shutter

speed range covered by the exposure value (EV) range of the meter, which varies with the aperture and ASA

setting.

The chart on page 35 shows the relationships between

the f-stop, shutter speed and film speed, indicating the

slowest usable shutter speed (for metering purposes)

■ Auto exposure control with stop-down metering When using a bellows or other extension equipment

which does not couple directly to the exposure meter, it

is necessary to use stop-down metering. Certain limita

tions are imposed in this mode. As lens-to-film distance is increased, the metering range (EV range) changes proportionately. For example, when

with any film speed/f-stop combination.

Careful attention to the following instructions will as sure precise exposure, automatically, over the complete

range of your Nikon FE.

■ Auto exposure control at full aperture For example, with an f/1.4 lens and ASA 100 film, the

an f/2 lens is used at a 2:1 reproduction ratio (twice lifesize) the effective f/number is f/5.6. When used at f/8, the effective f/number is f/22.

When pictures are taken under low-light levels, it is

desirable to use a high-speed film (ASA 160 or higher).

Using Tri-X at ASA 400 with stop-down metering, with

an effective f/number of f/8, the shutter speed range

automatic shutter will function down to one second with the lens set at 1.4, and proportionately slower as

the aperture is closed down.

Using ASA 25 film as a standard, you may be assured of

at least a four-second speed regardless of the aperture of

the lens used as long as the lens is set at full aperture

(refer to table).

would be from 1/4 second to 1/1000. Should the light

level drop below EV 6, it would be out of the shutter

speed range of the meter.

Slowest shutter speed

ASA speed

at full aperture with any lens

3200

Slowest shutter speed

(sec.) 1/30

With ASA 400 film at f/1.4, the slowest speed is 1/4 second; however, as the aperture is closed down, the

usable shutter speed becomes progressively slower until

we reach f/8 when the slowest speed of eight seconds is

possible.

1600

800 400

200 (160)

100 { 80)

SO ( 64) 2

25

1/15 1/8

1/4 1/2

1

4

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12

8

33

EV RANGE OF THE CAMERA—continued

How to read the EV chart

Full-aperture metering

Example: Lens maximum aperture: f/1.4

ASA film speed: 100 Working aperture: f/5.6

By referring to the f/1.4 column in Section A and the

EV values Indicated for ASA 100 In Section D, you will

find that the EV range for an f/1.4 lens at ASA 100 is

Stop-down metering

Example: ASA film speed: 100

Stopped-down aperture: f/8

The procedure is the same. The f/8 column in Section A and the EV values indicated for ASA 100 in Section D

will show you that the EV range for f/8 is 6 to 23. Refer

now to Section В and single out f/8 at ASA 100. Go

1 to 18. Now, refer to Section В and single out the

f/5.6 Indication for ASA 100. Go diagonally down

until the protruding line intersects with Section C’s

vertical line for the shutter speed of 8 sec. (the EE’s

slowest shutter speed). From this point of intersection, follow the horizontal line that leads to Section D*s

EV value for ASA 100, and you will obtain an EV

diagonally down until the protruding line intersects with Section C’s vertical line for the shutter speed of 8 sec.

From this point of intersection, follow the horizontal

ine that leads to Section D’s EV value for ASA 100, and

you will obtain an EV reading of 3. This means that an

f/stop of f/8 at ASA 100 and a shutter speed of 8 sec.

give an EV value outside the metering range. To find

value of 2. Start again from the f/5.6 indication for

ASA 100 in Section B, and go down diagonally until

the protruding line intersects with Section C’s verti

cal line for the shutter speed of 1/1000 sec. (the EE’s fastest shutter speed) this time. Then follow the hori zontal line that leads to Section D’s EV value for ASA

100, and you will get a reading of EV 15. This means

out the slowest shutter speed usable, follow the f/8 indi cation for ASA 100 in Section В diagonally down until

it intersects the horizontal line in Section C that leads

to Section D's EV value of 6 for ASA 100, and you will

find that the slowest shutter speed usable is 1 sec. In

other words, at f/8 and ASA 100, the available shutter

speed range that is within the metering range is from 1

that an f-stop of f/5.6 at ASA 100 and a shutter speed

of from 8 to 1/1000 sec. has an effective EV range of 2 to 15, which is well within the EE’s metering range of

EV 1 to EV 18. The area encompassed by the heavy

lines in Section C demonstrates a metering range for full

aperture method using an f/1.4 lens and ASA 100 film.

to 1/1000 sec., which has an effective EV range of 6 to

16 (indicated by the broken line In Section C)—well

within the metering range.

In practice, you will find that it is generally the high

end and the low end which require a careful check.

The EV range of the Nikon EE encompasses most

ighting situations, and it is only under dim-light or

extra-bright picture-taking situations that you need pay

34

any special attention.

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EV Chart

Section B

Section A

Working Aperture

3200

[4000)

6 57

8

9

Section D

ASA

1600

6

7 6 5 4 8

800

4

5 4

#

7

400 200

3

6 5 4 3

(160)

2 1

3

100 (BO)

2

3

50

(64)

0

1

2 1

25 12

-1

0

2

-2

-1 0

1

10

1 1 12

13 12 11 14

15 M

le 15

17 le

18 17

9 8

10 11

13

9 8

10 9

12

13 12

14

15

16 15

7

10 n

13 14

6

7 8 7

9

10

n 10

12

13

14 13 12

5

6 5

8 9

11

12

4

6

7 8 7 6

9 10

11

3

4

5

6

e

9 8

10

11

2

3

4

5

7 1

9

10

19

20

21

22

23 24

25

26 25 27

18

19 18

20

21 22 23

24

26

17

19

20 19 21 22 21 20

23

24

25

16

17 16

18 17 16

20

22 21

23

24

15 14 13 12 11

18 17 15 15

19

22

23

15

18 19 20

21 20 19

22

14

15

17

10

19

21

13

14

16 15

17

18

20

12

13

14

16 17

18

19

28

26

25

24

23

22

21 20

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35

MULTIPLE EXPOSURES

Intentional multiple exposure (two or more exposures

on the same frame) for creative effects are easy with the

FE. First, make the initial exposure. Then pull back the multi-exposure lever as far as it will go, and while holding it, stroke the film-advance lever. The multi

exposure lever needs to be held in only during the

beginning of the advance lever stroke. Repeat this pro

cedure for each additional exposure on the same frame. When you have achieved the desired number of ex

posures on the same frame, release the lever and stroke

the film-advance lever once more. Note that during

multiple exposure operation, both the camera’s shutter speed and the lens aperture can be changed to any

setting. The frame counter will remain at the same

setting until the multi-exposure lever is released—a convenient way of confirming that multiple exposure operation is proceeding properly.

For motor-driven multiple exposures. In combination

with the optional MD-12 Motor Drive Unit, simply pull

back the multi-exposure lever while firing off the desired

number of frames either in the “Single” or “Continuous”

mode. After releasing the lever, cover the lens with a lens cap and make a blank exposure to get the film ready for

the next shot.

36

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FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION

The Nikon FE is designed to synchronize with electronic flash units at all shutter speeds up to and Including 1 /125

second, or with flashbulbs up to and including 1/30 second. A built-in hot shoe offers operation without the need for a sync cord when using flash units equipped with an ISO-type hot-shoe mount such as the Nikon Speedlight Units SB-4, SB-8E, SB-9, and SB-10. For other units such as the Flash Unit BC-7 and the Speed-

light Unit SB-7E, the Flash Unit Coupler AS-2 is avail able for direct connection between the speedlight and the FE camera body. For the FE’s shutter speed sync

range, see the following table.

Flashbulb

Speedlight

FP

M

MF

■ ^=

Ì/1000

....

'» A« -

J

< f

//

Synchronized

•> A

■ *;€PTT^

1/250

Tt

Shulicf speed (sec.)

CannoI be used

/15

i«

1/8

H

i

_

«ÀJ

V«*

----- ---------

1/4

,vw.v

—

1/2

I -

8

J

z

=

y. ' —-I

: %

a

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37

FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION-continued

Ready-light

A ready-light is built into the eyepiece of the FE for

use with the Nikon Speedlight Unit SB-10. This unique

feature provides for greater ease of operation during flash photography, as the photographer need not remove

his eye from the eyepiece to check if the flash unit is ready for the next exposure; this built-in lamp lets the

Additionally, the ready-light functions as a sync signal; when the flash unit is not charged, the off, but even when it is charged, the ready-light

to warn you if the shutter speed is manually set the camera’s sync range (e.g. 1/250 second or

warning

ight is

flickers

beyond

above).

In this case, set the shutter-speed dial to a lower setting,

or switch to automatic control mode.

photographer know the condition of the flash (either

“ready” when glowing brightly, or “not ready” when

off or glowing dimly) at all times even while viewing.

When the FE is set to “AUTO,” mounting the SB-10

flash unit into the hot shoe and turning the unit on

automatically sets the shutter speed to 1/90 second.

No switchover to manual shutter speed setting is re

Note: When using an electronic flash other than the Nikon Speed-

light Unit SB-10 with the FE in the “AUTO” mode, it is advisa ble for perfect synchronized photography that you adjust the aperture ring to set the meter needle in the viewfinder to a speed slower than 1/60 sec., even though the X-synchronization is

1/125 sec. and below. Because the silicon photodiode in the FE

responds immediately to the slightest change in scene brightness,

it’s a good idea to give yourself some leeway.

quired for flash shooting. The camera's shutter operates

in the ordinary automatic mode if you release the shutter when the speedlight is turned off. This prevents wasting an exposure. Note that the above procedure is

applicable only to the SB-10/FE combination. Also, be

sure to release the shutter when the ready-light glows

brightly when using the SB-10 unit. The ready-light also lights up when the shutter-speed

dial is set at a speed slower than 1/125 second and the flash unit is charged. This indicates readiness for flash

photography.

' «■ •

38

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TIPS ON CAMERA CARE

Tough and durable though your Nikon FE is, it is a precision optical instrument, and careless or rough handling can cause

irreparable damage. Observe the following tips, and the camera

will always work as perfectly as the day you bought it.

• Remember that the camera’s controls are designed to operate with a minimum of pressure. If you find yourself exerting

extra force, take it as a warning that you’re doing something

wrong.

*

It is best to store the camera in a case or something similar when you’re not using it. In this case, make sure the camera’s shutter or self-timer is not cocked; also, don’t leave film in

the camera if it is to be stored for a long period of time.

Do not lubricate any part of the camera yourself; all such

work should be left to an authorized Nikon dealer or service

facility.

It is good practice to test your camera for proper operation

• Keep all lens and prism surfaces free from dust, dirt and fingerprints. These not only impair viewing—they also gener

ally result in a deterioration of optical performance. Clean

such surfaces either with a blower-type brush or with lens

tissue moistened with absolute alcohol. Never use lens tissue dry—it will scratch the lens. In general, avoid using cleaning fluids and lens tissue containing silicone (i.e., eyeglass tissue).

• When loading or unloading film, ensure that the interior of

before proceeding to your shooting assignment. Observe normal battery handling procedures to ensure your camera delivers maximum performance at all times: (1) In stall batteries correctly; (2) clean them periodically with a dry cloth; (3) remove batteries when the camera Is stored for a long period of time; (4) store unused batteries in a cool, dry place; (5) change weak batteries promptly to prevent

leakage within the camera. Also, dispose of used batteries

the camera body is free of dust, grit or chips of film. Use a blower-type brush to remove such foreign particles. Avoid

touching all internal surfaces, particularly the shutter curtains and film pressure plate.

• When mounting or removing lenses, prevent the entry of for eign matter, and take extra care not to damage the rear por tion of the lens. Use a blower-type brush to do your cleaning.

• Use the cleaning cloth to clean the external surfaces of the

properly (I.e., they should never be burnt), and keep them

out of the reach of children. For details on battery perform

ance by brand, refer to the literature available from the

manufacturer.

camera body.

• If condensation should form on the lens surfaces (i.e., when the camera is exposed to sudden temperature changes or to

high humidity), let the camera dry thoroughly at room tem perature before storing it in a cool, dry place.

• Should you drop the camera accidentally on the floor or in water, take it to an authorized Nikon dealer or service facility

for servicing immediately.

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39

MOUNTING AND REMOVING LENSES

To mount a lens fitted with a meter coupling ridge, first

make sure that the camera’s meter coupling lever is in

the normal position (i.e., it protrudes from the camera’s

lens mounting flange). Position the lens in the flange so

that the mounting index on the lens is aligned with the

mounting index on the camera body. Then, twist the lens counterclockwise until it clicks and locks into place.

To mount a lens not fitted with a meter coupling ridge, first make sure that the camera’s meter coupling lever is

locked up out of the way by pushing the coupling lever release and manually lifting the lever up. The mounting procedure is the same as described previously. Remem ber that stop-down exposure measurement is required

for lenses of this type (see page 30).

The lens’ maximum aperture is automatically indexed to

the camera’s meter as soon as it is mounted.

To remove the lens from the camera body, push in the

lens release button while twisting the lens clockwise as

far as it will go. Lift the lens out when it comes loose.

Note: The Nikon Fisheye 6mm f/5.6 and OP 10mm f/5.6 cannot be used with the Nikon FE, because the camera does not have a provision for locking the mirror in the “up” position.

40

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CHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS

Three different types of focusing screens are available

for the Nikon FE camera, each designed to meet specific

focusing requirements. The type K screen comes with

the camera as standard equipment.

After removing the lens from the camera body, look into

the mirror box. At the top front of the mirror box cast

ing, there is a latch for snapping open the focusing screen

frame holder. Then slip the small tip of the special

tweezers, which are supplied with the accessory focusing

screen, under the latch and pull outward to spring open

the holder. Take the screen out of the holder by grasping the small tab with the tweezers. To avoid getting

smudges or fingerprints on the screen’s optical surfaces,

do not remove the screen with your fingers.

To mount another screen, carefully place it into position

with the flat side facing downward and the tab out

(closer to the right side, facing the camera), then push

the front edge of the holder upward until it clicks into

position.

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41

CHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS—continued

Focusing Screen Selector Guide Description

TYPE K: Matte/Fresnel with horizontal rangefinder and microprism. Matte/Fresnel field with central 3mm-diameter split-image rangefinder

(horizontally aligned) surrounded by Imm-wide microprism collar. This screen combines the split-image and the microprism tor quick and accurate focusing, particularly with lenses of brighter maximum aperture. Screen also provided with centrally positioned, 12mm-diameter etched reference

circle denoting area of center-weighting TTL exposure measurement. Ex cellent for general photography, the Type K screen is standard equipment

on the Nikon FE.

TYPE B: Matte/Fresnel with focusing spot. Matte/Fresnel field with central 3mm-diameter fine-ground matte focusing

spot. The 12mm-diamter reference circle corresponds to the area of centerweighted TTL exposure measurement. Rated excellent with all lenses, this screen proves especially good with lenses having small maximum apertures, such as Reflex-Nikkors, as well as for closeup photography applications.

TYPE E: Matte/Fresnel with focusing spot and grid. Matte/Fresnel field with central 3mm-diameter fine-ground matte focus

ing spot and etched grid. The 12mm-diamter reference circle corresponds

to the area of center-weighted TTL exposure measurement. Rated excel

lent with all lenses, this screen proves especially good for exacting repro duction work, such as copying, as well as for architectural photography with PC-Nikkor lenses.

42

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Lens/Screen Compatibility Chart

Lens/screen selection

Lens

-------------------

Fisheye

Wideangle

-------------------------6mm f/2.8

8mm f/2.8

16mm f/3.5 13mm f/5.6

15mm f/5.6

18mm f/4

20mm 1/3.5

20mm f/4

24mm f/2

24mm f/2.8

28mm f/2

28mm t/2.8 28mm f/3.5

Screen

B E

K

□ = Excellent

Acceptable The image is brilliant from edge to edge, but the center area

(rangefinder, micro

Exposure metering method

Lens ■ Screen

Fisheye

Wideangle

6mm i/2.8

8mm f/2.8

I6mm f/3.5 13mm f/5,6 15mm f/5.6

iBmm f/4

20mm f/3.5

20mm f/4 24mm f/2

24mm f/2.8

28mm f/2

28mm f/2.8

2Smm f/3.5

B

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□ =

Exposure measure ment via full-aperture method

Exposure measure ment via stop-down

method

Normal

Telephoto

35mm f/1.4 35mm f/2

35mm f/2.8 50mm f/1.2

50mm f/1.4

50mm f/1.8

85mm f/2

105mm f/2.5 135mm f/2

135mm f/2.8

I35mm f/3.5

180mm t/2.8

200mm f/4

* IF-ED 300mm 1/2.8

300mm f/4.5

prism or crosshair) is dim. Focusing should be performed on the surrounding matte

area.

«

Normal

Telephoto

35mm f/1.4

35mm f/2

35mm f/2.8

50mm f/1.2 50mm f/1.4 50mm f/1.8

85mm t/2

105mm f/2.5

135mm f/2

135mm f/2.8 135mm f/3.5

180mm f/2.8

200mm f/4

4c IF-ED 300mm f/2.8

SOOmm f/4.5

Super

telephoto

Zoom

IF-ED 300mm f/4.5

400mm f/4.5

ED 400mm f/5.6

IF-ED 400mm 1/3.5

* IF-ED 400mm f/5.6

600mm f/5.6

^ IF-ED 600mm f/5,6

* IF-ED 800mm f/8

4c IF-ED 1200mm f/11

28'45mm f/4,5

35 - 70mm f/3.5

43 86mm t/3.5

50'300mm f/4.5

ED 50 - 300mm f/4.5

80 - 200mm f/4.5

ED 180 -600mm f/8

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• < '/Vi *'•; •

Super

telephoto

Zoom

4c IF-ED 300mm f/4.5

400mm f/4.5

ED 400mm f/5.6

4c IF-ED 400mm f/3.5

4= IF-ED 40Qmm f/5.6

6O0mm f/5.6

4c IF-ED 6Q0mm f/5.6

* IF-ED 800mm t/8

4c IF-ED 1200mm f/H

28 - 45mm f/4.5

35 - 70mm f/3.5 43 - 86mm f/3.5

50 - 300mm f/4.5

ED 50 - 300mm f/4.5

80 - 200mm f/4.5

ED 180 -600mm f/8

200 - 600mm f/9.5

ED 360 - 1200mm f/n

PC

Noct 5Smm f/1.2

Micro

4c IF 200mm f/4

Medical 200mm f/5.6

Reflex

Telephoto

28mm f/4

35mm f/2.8

55mm f/3.5

105mm f/4

500mm f/8 1000mm f/11 2000mm f/11

* Internal focusing type

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V ^

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• SV .. .V >.*

200 -600mm f/9.5

ED 360-- l20Gmm t/11

PC

Noct

Micro

4c IF 200mm 1/4

Medical Reflex

Telephoto

28mm f/4

35mm f/2.8 58mm f/1.2 55mm f/3.5

105mm f/4

200mm f/5.6

500mm f/8

lOGOmm f/11

2000mm f/I1

* Internal focusing type.

* • •

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43

ACCESSORIES

MD-12 Motor Drive Unit

The Nikon FE’s own compact motor drive unit. Hand

somely finished in black and made of durable steel, the

MD-12 attaches to the FE in seconds, requiring absolutely

no modification or special adjustment of the camera

f Vw S V ^ •

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•<W' ••

body. Continuous and single frame operation available,

with a maximum shooting speed of 3.5 frames per second from 1/125 sec. to 1/1000 sec. Firing speed automatically adjusted as shutter speed is adjusted.

Built-in battery pack contributes to overall reduced size and weight. Fitted with remote control socket for use with Nikon remote control accessories such as the MT-1

Intervalometer and the MW-1 Radio Remote Control Set.

44

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Camera Cases

Recommended for storing camera body with lens at

tached. Different sizes available to accommodate most

Nikkor lenses.

Lens Hoods

Recommended to prevent extraneous light from striking

the lens and causing ghost images and flare; also useful for protecting the lens. All kinds of models to match various Nikkor lenses.

Filters

A wide selection of sizes and types to meet the needs of color or black-and-white photography. These filters work best with Nikkor lenses, and vice versa. Also useful

for protecting the front of the lens.

Eyepiece Correction Lenses

Available in nine different powers for maximum selec tivity, Nikon eyepiece correction lenses permit the nearor far-sighted user to view and focus without wearing

spectacles. Diopters available are —5, —4, —3, —2, 0, +0.5, +1, +2 and +3, with each value representing the combined lens/finder dioptry.

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45

FEATURES/SPECIFICATIONS

Type of camera: 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR)

Picture format: 24mm x 36mm (35mm film format)

Lens mount: Nikon bayonet type Lenses available: Nikkor 50mm f/1.2, f/1.4, f/1.8, f/2, or 55mm

f/1.2 as standard; more than 50 Interchangeable Nikkor

lenses in all

Shutter: Vertical-travel focal-plane shutter with speeds from 8

to 1/1000 sec., “B” and M90 (mechanical, 1/90 sec.); auto

screen); two other types of screens available optionally

(Types В and E)

Reflex mirror: Automatic instant-return mirror

Self-timer: Can be set for approx. 8 to 14 sec. delay; setting

“cancellable”; serves also as a memory-lock lever

Exposure metering: Through-the-lens, center-weighted, full-

aperture exposure measurement employing two silicon

photodiodes (SPD's) with Nikkor lenses fitted with meter

matic shutter speed selection within a range of 8 sec. to

1 /1000 sec.; manual shutter speed selection for the 8-1 /1000

sec. range plus “B” and M90; shutter speed selected indi

cated in the viewfield; shutter release via shutter button or

self-timer

Flash synchronization: Built-in ISO-type hot-shoe contact with

safety switch for synchronization with electronic flash units;

built-in ready-light for use with the optional Nikon Speed-

coupling ridge; stop-down metering applies for other lenses;

exposure correctly set either automatically or by matching

two needles; meter cross-coupled with both lens diaphragm

and shutter speed controls, meter powered by two 1.55V silver-oxide batteries or one 3V lithium battery

Metering range: EV 1 to EV 18 (i.e., f/1.4, 1 sec.—f/1 6, 1/1000

sec.) with 50mm f/1.4 (ens at ASA 100; built-in meter cou

pling lever can be locked up, enabling use with both Al-type

light Unit SB-10, serves also as a sync warning signal; sync

terminal provided

Synchronization range: For electronic flash units, 1/125 sec.

to 8 sec. plus “B” and M90; for flashbulbs, 1/30 sec. to

8 sec. plus B; sync speed of 1/90 sec. fixed when the SB-10

is mounted on the “AUTO"-set FE camera body, and the

flash unit is switched on

Accessory shoe; ISO-type built into the finder housing; fitted

and non-AI-type Nikkor lenses; aperture coupling range f/1.2 to f/32; film speed setting ASA 12 to ASA 4000; ex

posure compensation range EV -ь2 to EV —2 (up to —1 at

ASA 3200 and 4000; up to +1 when set at 12)

Film winding: Via single-stroke lever with 135° winding angle

and 30° stand-off angle; lever also serves as meter on/off switch; automatic film winding also possible using the option al Motor Drive Unit MD-12

with hot-shoe contact and electrical safety switch which turns on contact as flash unit is mounted; fitted also with

ready-light contact for use with the SB-10 Speedlight Unit

Viewfinder; Fixed eyelevel pentaprism type with built-in

through-the-lens (TTL) exposure meter; shutter speed indi

cated to the left within the viewfield; lens aperture setting

indicated In the finder when lens in use is fitted with a meter coupling ridge and an aperture-direct-readout lens aper

Franie counter: Additive type; automatically resets to “S,” two

frames before “0,” when camera back is opened

Film rewinding: Manual crank type

Depth-of-field preview: Via lever provided on front of camera

Camera back: Hinged, swing-open type; removable; memo holder

provided

Dimensions: 1 42mm x 89.5mm x 57.5mm (approx.)

Weight: 590g (body only, approx.)

ture scale

Focusing screen; Matte Fresnel focusing screen with central split-

image rangefinder spot and microprism collar (Nikon Type К

46

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Other features included are multiple exposure facility and motor drive functions.

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Nikon fe User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

NOMENCLATURE

CONTENTS

mREWORD

PREPARATION FOR USE

Installing the Batteries

Checking Battery Power

Loading Film

PREPARATION FOR USE—continued

Prior to Shooting

Setting the Film Speed

Memo Holder

Setting the Shutter Speed

Film-Advance Lever

Frame Counter

Self-Timer

Memory Lock

HOLDING THE CAMERA

SHUTTER RELEASE OPERATION

Operation with Cable Release

FOCUSING

FOCUSING—continued

Film-Plane Indicator

DEPTH OF FIELD

Depth-of-Field Preview Lever

Depth-of-Field Indicators

EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT

Automatic Shutter Speed Selection

EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT—continued

STOP-DOWN EXPOSURE MEA<iUREMENl

For fixed-aperture lenses such as Reflex-Nikkors,

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS

EV RANGE OF THE CAMERA

EV RANGE OF THE CAMERA—continued

How to read the EV chart

Full-aperture metering

Stop-down metering

MULTIPLE EXPOSURES

FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION

FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION-continued

Ready-light

TIPS ON CAMERA CARE

MOUNTING AND REMOVING LENSES

CHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS

CHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS—continued

Focusing Screen Selector Guide Description

Lens/Screen Compatibility Chart

Lens/screen selection

Exposure metering method

ACCESSORIES

Camera Cases

Lens Hoods

Filters

Eyepiece Correction Lenses

FEATURES/SPECIFICATIONS